Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests: A Growing Concern
A recent editorial published in Oncotarget on December 24, 2024, raises serious concerns about the risks associated with readily available genetic tests for cancer predisposition. the article, penned by Dr. Wafik S. El-Deiry, Editor-in-Chief of Oncotarget, and Dr. Eli Y. Adashi of Brown University, focuses on the “Invitae Common Hereditary Cancers Panel,” a test approved in 2023 that screens for genetic markers linked to various inherited cancers, including breast, ovarian, and Lynch syndrome cancers.
While increased access to genetic information is undeniably beneficial, the authors caution against the potential for misuse.The ease with which consumers can order these tests online without professional consultation presents important challenges. Individuals may struggle to interpret complex results, leading to unnecessary anxiety and possibly harmful decisions based on incomplete or misunderstood information.
The lack of professional guidance is a major concern. Dr. El-Deiry and Dr. Adashi emphasize this point,stating,”The DTC option of germ-line testing for cancer susceptibility should be discouraged given the risks of anxiety,lack of adequate interpretation for variants not strongly associated with cancer,potential for minors to be tested outside the healthcare system and potential for loss of follow-up if test results are not shared with health care professionals or never make it into the medical record.”
The editorial also highlights ethical and practical issues surrounding minors’ access to these tests. Testing children without medical oversight can lead to incomplete medical records, hindering appropriate follow-up care and potentially jeopardizing their long-term health. Furthermore, the often high cost of these tests, frequently not covered by insurance, places an additional burden on families already facing potential health crises.
The authors strongly advocate for the involvement of healthcare providers and genetic counselors in all aspects of cancer risk genetic testing. This ensures accurate interpretation of results and provides patients with the necessary support and guidance to make informed decisions. They also urge the U.S.Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to implement clearer regulations, especially concerning the testing of minors.
while genetic testing offers immense potential for cancer prevention and treatment, responsible implementation is crucial.A collaborative effort involving regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and testing companies is essential to mitigate risks and ensure the safe and effective use of these powerful tools.
Direct-to-Consumer Cancer Gene Tests: Balancing Prospect with Risk
The rise of easily accessible at-home genetic tests has revolutionized healthcare, but some argue thes tests carry meaningful risks, especially when it comes to cancer predisposition. We spoke with Dr. Jennifer Lawson, a board-certified genetic counselor and Assistant Professor at the University of California, San Francisco, to delve into these concerns and explore the delicate balance between accessibility and safety.
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: Dr. Lawson, thank you for joining us today.A recent editorial in Oncotarget raised some serious concerns about direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests for cancer susceptibility.What are your thoughts on this issue?
Dr. Jennifer Lawson: I think it’s fantastic that genetic testing is becoming more accessible,but we need to proceed with caution. While DTC tests offer valuable facts,interpreting the results can be incredibly complex,and there’s a real risk of misinterpretation leading to needless anxiety or potentially harmful decisions.
Senior Editor: The editorial specifically mentioned anxieties surrounding variants that might not be strongly linked to cancer. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Jennifer Lawson: Absolutely. Our genes are incredibly complex, and manny variations exist that are not fully understood. A DTC test might flag a variant as “possibly” linked to cancer, causing significant distress to an individual without necessarily indicating an actual increased risk. Without professional guidance from a genetic counselor, it’s very easy for people to misinterpret these results and make life-altering decisions based on incomplete information.
Senior Editor: The editorial also highlighted concerns about minors being tested without proper medical oversight. Is that a valid concern?
Dr. jennifer Lawson: It’s a huge concern.Children can’t fully comprehend the implications of these results, and without proper medical guidance, testing them outside the healthcare system can lead to incomplete medical records. This can hinder appropriate follow-up care and potentially jeopardize their long-term health.
Senior Editor: What about the ethical implications of DTC testing?
Dr. Jennifer Lawson.: There are many ethical considerations. As an example, if someone tests positive for a gene mutation, it can raise complex questions about sharing this information with family members who might also be at risk. Without proper counseling, these decisions can be incredibly stressful and challenging.
Senior Editor: So what’s the solution? Should accessible genetic testing be abandoned altogether?
Dr. Jennifer Lawson: Not at all! Genetic testing holds immense potential for cancer prevention and early detection. The key is responsible implementation. We need clear guidelines from regulatory bodies like the FDA, especially regarding the testing of minors. Equally significant is involving healthcare professionals like genetic counselors in every stage of the process — from pre-test counselling to result interpretation and ongoing support.
Senior Editor: It sounds like a collaborative effort is essential.
Dr. Jennifer Lawson: Precisely. It takes a multi-pronged approach involving testing companies, regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and patients themselves to ensure that these powerful tools are used responsibly and ethically.
